Tube Guitar Amps vs. Solid State Guitar Amps

At this point you have probably figured out that I am a guitarist. Like most musician's, and guitarist in particular, I am constantly searching for a better sounds or tone. Strings, the wood used to construct the guitar, effects, etc. can all help to improve your tone. But none of that matters if your amplifier won't deliver!

Luckily, today's guitar players have many, many choice when it comes to amps. There is everything from small combo amps for studio use to the double stack that we look soooooo good standing in front of on stage. And with every size, there are both tube and solid state amps available.

Tube amps tend to weigh more than solid state amps of the same size and power output. This can be important if you don't have a "roadie" to carry your gear. I personally own a tube amp. My current musical endeavors are handled by a mid-sized combo. The unit weighs about 40 pounds, which is not bad. I like the sound of a tube amp versus solid state. I think the tone is warmer and fatter.

I also have a solid state modeling amp that is very nice. The digital reproductions of tube amps are excellent!! This amp weighs about 15 pounds and is great to "grab and go" to the rehearsal or the last minute gig.